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Motorists, cyclists must keep eyes peeled

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Wednesday October 16, 2013 6:36 AM

I respond to the Oct. 8
Dispatch article “Bicyclists often left to writhe after accidents” in light of an
experience I had on my bicycle just three days later.

As I was traveling south on Doty Road in Fairfield County, approaching Bickel Church Road, I
observed a woman in a light blue car pull up to the intersection and stop. Just as I neared the
intersection, she proceeded to turn left into me.

I am a very conscientious, defensive bicyclist and was ready for her turn. I stopped and yelled
at her and she immediately stopped. She said to me, “I'm sorry, sir, I did not see you.” I replied,
“That is why I yelled at you.”

My point is this: Here I am on a beautiful fall day, sun shining, no obstructions — other cars,
trees, buildings — blocking our views of the roadways. I'm dressed in a fluorescent green cycling
shirt that I wear so I can be seen on the road.

Why the lady did not see me I'll never know for sure, but I think I know why: She stopped,
looked both ways up and down the roads, but didn't look directly in front of her, which is where I
was traveling at that time.

I urge all motorists to look carefully up and down the roads and in front of their vehicles
before proceeding. I also urge all cyclists to ride defensively.

Too many bicyclists assume they have been seen by drivers in cars. No cyclist wants to end up as
a hood ornament, as I almost did.